Proper Care for Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great, long-term solution for people looking to replace multiple missing teeth. It is a great teeth replacement option because it has a high success rate, over 98% of implant cases are a success, and they are durable.
Implants, with the proper care, can last a lifetime. There have been cases where people have had strong, sturdy dental implants for 20, 30, or even 40 years. The secret to making the dental implants last so long is taking care of them.
Are you wondering what is involved with caring for dental implants? The following guide will provide you with detailed instructions on how to properly care for dental implants.
Dental Care is Similar to Your Natural Teeth
Many people are surprised to learn that caring for dental implants is no different than caring for your natural teeth. Everything from how you brush and floss to the type of toothpaste you use is the same as what you did and used before dental implants.
The similarity in dental care makes it easy for people to adapt to an oral hygiene routine after dental implants. People easily adapt because the routine is the same as pre-dental implants.
Use a Soft Bristled Manual or Electric Toothbrush
When brushing your dental implants, it is recommended that you use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. The toothbrush can be manual or electric.
Some dentists will recommend using an electric toothbrush, especially if you find it difficult to reach the back of the mouth or you have arthritis. Electric toothbrushes are recommended in these situations because they do most of the work for you. This allows you to get a deeper, more complete clean than if you use a manual toothbrush.
Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush is a personal preference. It is a decision you will have to make after carefully discussing it with your dentist and examining your personal budget.
Brush at Least Three Times a Day and Floss at Least Once a Day
Your oral care routine will not differ when you have dental implants. You will still need to brush at least three times a day and floss once a day. Brushing and flossing this often will keep your dental implants clean and avoid the possibility of developing plaque buildup.
It would be ideal if you could brush after every meal or snack, but that isn’t always possible. That is why dentists recommend brushing at least three times a day.
Schedule Regular Check-ups and Cleanings with Your Dentist
It is important to make sure not only the gums around your dental implant remain healthy, but your entire mouth. Regular check-ups with your dentist will help make sure your mouth stays healthy.
How often you should schedule a regular check-up and cleaning with your dentist will vary on your treatment plan. Typically, it is recommended that you visit the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning every three to four months. In some cases, you may only need to visit every six months.
Other Types of Specialty Equipment Used to Help Keep Dental Implants Clean
Most people will be able to properly care for their dental implants with a toothbrush, dental floss, and non-abrasive toothpaste. However, some individuals will need to get specialty dental equipment to properly care for their dental implants.
Some things that may be recommended if you have dental implants include:
- Antimicrobial mouthwash
- Water floss
- Tiny brushes that help remove plaque and tartar buildup that occurs around the dental implants
- Tablets that can stain where plaque is building up in the mouth
At Vero VIP Implants & Periodontics for your dental implants, we work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that helps keep your mouth and implants healthy. Your treatment plan will include instructions on how to care for your dental implant and crown, and how often you should follow up with your dentist for examinations and professional cleaning.
To learn more about Vero VIP Implants & Periodontics, call our office to schedule an appointment.